Chess Explained: The c3 Sicilian

The c3 Sicilian is one of White's most popular and poisonous ways to avoid the main lines of the Sicilian. White denies his opponent the chance to demonstrate his preparation in some chaotic system; instead he will have to fight carefully for equality in a more rational position of White's choosing. There are plenty of tricks and traps in the c3 Sicilian, and the open piece-play that often results can lead to quick attacks and means that careless play will rarely go unpunished.